Primary responsibility for coast protection works rests with the property owner, whether that is a private individual or a local authority. In 2000 my Department provided funding of €26,550.72, £20,910.39, to Waterford County Council towards the total cost of €35,400.96, £27,880.52, for the detailed design stage of coast protection works at Cunnigar. In October 2001 my Department wrote to all coastal local authorities requesting proposals for consideration in the context of the 2002 coast protection programme. Waterford County Council has submitted a proposal in respect of works at Cunnigar. The question of funding coast protection works at the location will be considered in the context of the funding available for coast protection works in 2002 and overall national priorities.